Microsoft Game Pass Introduces New Tier and Raises Prices

by Tom Misch
in News, PC, Release, XBOX
on 10 July 2024

Microsoft has officially confirmed that Game Pass, its popular subscription service, will undergo some major changes in the near future. As reported by Windows Central, the leaks were accurate in predicting that Game Pass would see a price increase across all tiers. However, the company has also revealed the introduction of a new subscription tier, Xbox Game Pass Standard.

Replacing the current base Xbox Game Pass tier for console users, Xbox Game Pass Standard will be priced at $14.99 per month. However, there is a significant difference compared to its predecessor. Unlike the base tier, Xbox Game Pass Standard will not include day one releases. Subscribers who wish to have day and date access to titles will need to subscribe to the Ultimate or PC tiers.

But what about existing Xbox Game Pass members? Microsoft has stated that current subscribers will retain their subscriptions without any changes until they expire. This means that their prices will not increase immediately. However, starting from July 10, new subscribers will no longer be able to select the base Game Pass tier.

As for the release date of Xbox Game Pass Standard, Microsoft has not provided a specific date. However, the company has assured that the new tier will become available “in the coming months”. This means that new Game Pass subscribers on console will have no choice but to opt for the Core or Ultimate tiers for now.

These changes in the Game Pass subscription service demonstrate Microsoft’s dedication to providing a wider range of options for gamers. While the price increase may raise some eyebrows, it is clear that the company wants to offer a more tailored experience to its subscribers.

Facts not mentioned in the article:
1. The Xbox Game Pass was first launched by Microsoft in June 2017.
2. The Game Pass subscription service offers access to a library of over 200 games that can be downloaded and played on Xbox consoles and PCs.
3. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes all the benefits of Game Pass for console and PC, as well as Xbox Live Gold subscription.
4. Microsoft has been acquiring various game studios in recent years, adding to its exclusive game offerings for Game Pass subscribers.
5. Xbox Game Pass has been praised for its value for money and the variety of games it offers.

Key questions and answers:
1. What are the different tiers of Xbox Game Pass?
– The tiers include Xbox Game Pass Standard, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, and Xbox Game Pass for PC.
2. What is the price increase for Game Pass?
– The article does not mention the specific price increase, but it states that Game Pass will see a price increase across all tiers.
3. What is the advantage of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate?
– Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes access to Game Pass for console and PC, as well as Xbox Live Gold subscription, allowing online multiplayer gaming.
4. Will existing Game Pass subscribers have to pay the increased price?
– No, existing subscribers will keep their current subscription prices until they expire.
5. When will the new Xbox Game Pass Standard be available?
– Microsoft has not provided a specific release date but mentioned that it will be available “in the coming months.”

Key challenges or controversies:
1. The price increase for Game Pass may cause concerns for current and potential subscribers who have enjoyed the service at its previous price point.
2. The exclusion of day one releases in the Xbox Game Pass Standard tier might disappoint some subscribers who enjoyed the early access to new titles.
3. The introduction of a new tier and changes to the subscription options could create confusion among potential subscribers.

Advantages:
1. Xbox Game Pass offers a wide variety of games to choose from, providing a convenient and cost-effective way for gamers to access a large library.
2. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate includes Xbox Live Gold, eliminating the need for a separate subscription for online multiplayer gaming.
3. Microsoft’s ongoing acquisition of game studios increases the potential for exclusive, high-quality games available on the Game Pass platform.

Disadvantages:
1. The price increase may make the service less affordable for some gamers, potentially leading to subscription cancellations.
2. The exclusion of day one releases in the Xbox Game Pass Standard tier may disappoint subscribers who were looking forward to early access to new titles.
3. The introduction of a new tier and changes to the subscription options could create confusion among potential subscribers, complicating their decision-making process.

The source of the article is from the blog macnifico.pt